BMW debuts the first ever M Performance automobile to feature a petrol engine: BMW M135i with a 3-litre, straight six-cylinder engine and 235 kW/320 hp as well as M-characteristic suspension components and
aerodynamically optimized body features; Highest level of performance and the most outstanding efficiency within the competitive environment; Typical M-style coherence between drive, suspension technology and aerodynamic balance as well as model-specific interior design for unmistakeable driving pleasure in a compact model; BMW M135i also available as a five-door version.

One non-metallic and five metallic colours are available for the M135i model. The standard interior features Satin Silver trim and upholstery in Move cloth design. Optional interior trims and seats upholstered in Dakota leather (offered in two different BMW colors) are also available.

The performance potential of the BMW M135i is reflected in its individual exterior and interior design features, which are integral parts of the series equipment in this BMW M Performance automobile. The body details are typical of a car designed to handle the aerodynamic requirements associated with dynamic, high-performance driving situations – it is such details that convey the unique M style and flair. The front apron is typical of M styling that reflects the car’s firm and responsive road handling, with the large air intake vents needed to meet the cooling demands of a high-performance straight six-cylinder engine, auxiliary units and oversized brakes. The competitive character of the car can also be seen in the three-dimensional flaps on the outer air vents, a detail inspired by automobile racing. These air inlets take up the space reserved for the fog lights in the other versions of the three-door BMW 1 Series. They are separated by horizontal struts in Ferric Grey metallic – a design detail that distinguishes BMW M Performance cars.

In addition to the BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line and the exterior mirror caps in Ferric Grey, the specially contoured side skirts and 18-inch M light alloy double-spoke wheels with mixed tyres intensify the side profile of the BMW M135i. The rear apron, the lower portion of which is finished in Dark Shadow metallic, also encloses the dual exhaust pipes.

This power plant enhances the wide selection of engines available for the new compact three-door BMW 1 Series. At the same time, it is an essential component of a portfolio that positions BMW M Performance automobiles at the top of the performance segment. The BMW M135i is powered by a straight six-cylinder engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology, which is known for its spontaneous performance and high revving, plus a level of efficiency that is remarkable in this performance class.

The technology package includes a TwinScroll turbocharger, direct High Precision Injection with central multi-hole injectors, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and Double VANOS variable camshaft timing. This 3.0-litre engine delivers a maximum power output of 235 kW/320 hp at 5 800 rpm. This impressive power results from the maximum torque of 450 Nm that is available between 1 300 and 4 500 rpm.
The BMW M135i sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds (automatic: 4.9 seconds) and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h – the top limit permitted by the vehicle’s electronic speed control system. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 8.0 litres (7.5 litres)/100 km, and the CO2 emissions level is 188 grams (175 grams) per kilometre. The exclusive power train for the compact BMW M Performance car also features a customised cooling system, M performance control and engine sound tuning, plus a newly developed six-speed manual transmission with dry sump lubrication. A dynamic eight-speed automatic sports transmission with gearshift paddles integrated in the steering wheel is available as an option.

The M135i Hatchabck will be available only to European customers, but according to our sources, the M135i Coupe will come to the United States.

At least in terms of engine performance, the 2015 Audi RS3 is the crown of the leader premium compact sports car segment. The new RS3 …

kolbasz

So if this is the M Performance modell of the new 1 Series that means there will be an even more powerfull version? Like an F20 1M?

Giom

Probably an M2 based on the forthcoming coupé. Can’t wait for that!

Andrew Nakhla

I think it is a bit misleading with BMW saying it is the first ever M performance automobile to feature a petrol engine. Don’t most if not all BMW M automobiles have petrol engines? Did they mean to say diesel or is M performance a new category of BMW automobiles?

http://twitter.com/FloPoe FloPoe

BMW M Performance automobiles is a completely new category. The position of those cars can be compared to Audi’s S-Models as they fit right between the most powerful “Standard BMW” and the respective M car.